At what point should I start worrying about reduced movements?

[KelaS]

Hi. Am 39+1, and for the last couple of days I have noticed that the baby isn't moving as much as normal, but it is still moving. Has always been very active, so a reduction in movement means I am still getting the 10 movements a day that I believe is normal, but it is a lot less than before. Also, the movements themselves aren't as strong as they were (at least they haven't been so far today - last night I got worried about this at about the same time, went and laid down on my left for a while and it started moving, then about 8.30 it really starting moving properly, which is about the time it gets active most nights).

So, I guess my question is; if I am still getting some movement, does that mean that it is just running out of room, and as long as I am still getting some movement it is probably ok, or should I be worrying because I am not getting as much movement as before?

(BTW - it is moving a little bit at the moment, but very slight movements, and I have to really concentrate to feel them, which is unusual for me)

He's probably not got enough room to do much more than that particularly if he is engaged and tucked into your pelvis.

You can try drinking a cold drink and lying on your left side - that normally prompts a reaction. As long as you can feel 10 movements don't worry though. He may also be resting in readiment for birth - you should be too!

if you are worried, and you do not feel the amount of kicking is normal for you, bearing in mind you are in the late stages of pregnancy, give your MW a call...

try what WMMC suggested, cold drink and lie on your left side, the cold of the drink wakes up the baby as the stomach is right on top of your uterus and left side is a good one to lie on for optimal blood flow....

if you need reassurance, give MW a call

Yeah, like I said, it does move when I try and make it move (cold drinks etc), so not too worried, more wondering if I should be iyswim. Might ring in the morning to get some reassurance though. And yes, it is engaged, at least partially (3/5 as of last Friday although I think it might have gone down a bit more since - maybe that is why the reduced movement?)

worrying about worrying is counter productive!! if you feel worried enough now, or tomorrow call... ! it is your comfort zone

a partially engaged baby will not kick and punch and roll a much as a non engaged one, it just cannot !

Yep, sounds like you are ready for the off!

Do ring your midwife in the morning - but don't be too surprised if you go down for a check-up and find contractions showing up on the monitor.

Thanks guys, will call in the morning, although it has now started its 8.30pm dance a little early so am less worried.

WMMC - do you think I could be having contractions that I can't feel? Have been wondering for the last day or so if things might be starting to happen; nothing I can really put my finger on as being a definate sign of labour, just an instinct really, if that doesn't sound crazy!

KelaS - I was having 'quite strong' contractions on the monitor for at least three weeks before I was induced with DD. I'd trust your instincts if I were you.

Ooooh, I am getting excited now. Although will probably be another 3 weeks yet with my luck

Any change in movements must be checked out.

Well, it is wriggling quite strongly at the moment, so will see what happens overnight/in the morning. Thanks for the advice all

As soon as you're worried get checked. I did this in 2 of my pregnancies - they don't mind at all....